Larry Blessing

Larry E. Blessing, 68, of Ashland, died unexpectedly Friday, October 12, 2012 at Samaritan Regional Health Systems. Born January 1, 1944 in Lodi, he was the son of Otis L. and Virginia (Patterson) Blessing. Larry worked at Hess & Clark for 34 years and retired as a Pharmaceutical Technician at Wil Research. He attended Grace Brethren Church where he was involved with the Light House Adult Bible Fellowship. He was also a member of the original Burnt Offerings Men’s Breakfast at Park St. Brethren Church. An avid bowler, Larry was a member of the American Bowling Congress, a lifetime member of the Ohio Inter-City Bowling Association, and was the former City Bowling Secretary. Once a little league coach, he was a supporter of the Ashland Arrow and Black River Pirates athletics. Larry was a member of the Ashland Elks and a former member of the NRA. He loved to travel, but his passion was spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Brenda (Boyd) Blessing of Ashland; daughter, Laura (Mark) Gilmore of Ashland; son, Brian (Laura) Blessing of Ashland; grandchildren, Courtney and Sydney Gilmore and Hunter, Morgan, Chase, and Brice Blessing; brother, Ronald Blessing (fiancée, Pat Hastings) of Sullivan; sister, Nancy (Larry) Clark of Sullivan; sister-in-law, Elizabeth Boyd of Marion; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends may call Monday, October 15, 2012 from 3:00-8:00 p.m. at the Ashland Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 308 Claremont Ave., Ashland. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 16, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at Grace Brethren Church, 1144 W. Main St., Ashland, conducted by Pastor Rob Barlow and Pastor Dan Allan. Burial will follow in Southview Cemetery in Sullivan. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or Hospice of North Central Ohio.